China and Indonesia Race to Restore Underwater Forests as New Maps Reveal 35x Faster Carbon Capture

For the first time, researchers have produced a high-resolution global map of seagrass meadows, showing they cover an area roughly the size of Switzerland [180762]. The map reveals that previous estimates of seagrass coverage were too low, meaning the ocean’s ability to store carbon is larger than scientists had believed [180735]. Seagrass absorbs carbon dioxide up to 35 times faster than tropical rainforests, making it one of the most efficient natural carbon sinks on the planet [180735]. The data is now publicly available to help governments protect these ecosystems from trawling and coastal development, and to target specific areas for restoration [180735][180762].

In China, scientists and local communities are actively restoring damaged marine ecosystems. In the Yellow Sea, teams have planted over 200 hectares of seagrass to clean the water and provide food and shelter for fish, crabs, and other sea creatures [184406]. Another initiative in the South China Sea focuses on transplanting coral fragments to revive dying reefs [184406]. The government has also banned harmful fishing practices in some zones, and early results show increased biodiversity, with more species returning to restored areas [184406]. The work is part of China’s broader plan to protect 30% of its coastal waters by 2030 [184406].

Indonesia is developing new ways to pay for nature conservation. The government presented its plans in London this week, seeking international support for financing models that are both inclusive and sustainable [182154]. The goal is to reduce the financial gap in protecting forests and wildlife by involving local communities and private investors, creating a system that does not rely solely on government funds [182154].